Quantum-AI research scientist

Quantum‑AI Research Scientist / Scientifique chercheur en IA Quantique at Thales in Montreal – Saint Urbain, Canada. Position Summary Thales’ AI Research Team in Canada is looking for a researcher with a passion for tackling complex scientific challenges, exploring quantum advantage in AI‑based applications, and applying quantum‑enhanced solutions to machine learning and optimisation projects. The role focuses on design, implementation, and deployment of cutting‑edge AI‑quantum solutions that are efficient, safe, robust, trustworthy, and certifiable. Responsibilities Conduct research in quantum computing and quantum algorithms to explore quantum advantage in complex real‑world problems. Work on multidisciplinary projects spanning optimisation, signal processing, and machine learning. Develop proof‑of‑concept implementations on quantum simulators and real quantum hardware to validate theoretical models and assess practical feasibility. Collaborate with cross‑functional engineering teams to translate research breakthroughs into deployable prototypes and production‑ready systems. Publish research findings in top‑tier conferences and journals and contribute to publishing innovation patents. Communicate effectively with technical and non‑technical stakeholders. Select methods and techniques that yield better solutions with good judgement. Collaborate with academic or research organisations (e.g., NSERC, MITACS) and industrial partners. Collect, synthesise and shape system requirements and research innovation roadmaps. Minimum Requirements Ph.D. or master’s in quantum computing and quantum algorithms, with practical experience solving real‑world problems. Solid knowledge of quantum computing fundamentals, algorithms, error correction, and quantum machine learning. Experience solving NP‑hard optimisation problems on quantum computers for large‑scale graph problems. Familiarity with quantum computing frameworks such as Qiskit, Pasqal or neural‑atom‑based technology. Strong background in AI/ML techniques and frameworks (PyTorch, TensorFlow, Scikit‑learn) and proficiency in Python and C++. Experience designing and executing experiments, model optimisation and data analysis. Excellent scientific communication, problem‑solving and teamwork skills. Fluency in English (spoken and written). Preferred Qualifications Experience with variational quantum algorithms in hybrid classical‑quantum systems and quantum kernel methods. Knowledge of geometric quantum machine learning and quantum optimisation techniques such as QAOA, quantum annealing, or inspired heuristics. Published work in recognised conferences and journals (e.g., Nature, NeurIPS, IEEE). Fluency in French (spoken and written). Schedule / Physical Environment / Travel Regular working schedule; mainly office or remote desk work with occasional outdoor field work. Occasionally travel for field trials, conferences or meetings in other regions (e.g., Europe). Must be eligible for Canada’s Controlled Goods Program and US Export Administration Regulations. Compensation Total Target Compensation (TTC) market range: inclusive of annual base salary and variable target. Detailed information available upon request. Benefits Health, dental, life, AD&D, short‑term disability, travel insurance, employee assistance and well‑being program. RRSP, DCPP and TFSA retirement plans with company contribution and match. Paid holidays, vacation days, and sick leave. Employee discounts on insurance, home and auto. Equal Opportunities and Accessibility Thales is an equal‑opportunity employer that embraces diversity and inclusion. We provide accommodations throughout the recruitment process. Candidates needing accommodation should inform us during interview invitation. The position requires access to controlled hardware, software or technical information under Canadian and US export regulations. Applicants must obtain necessary authorisations. #J-18808-Ljbffr